Art Quote by William Butler Yeats
“What can books of men that wive In a dragon-guarded land, Paintings of the dolphin-drawn Sea-nymphs in their pearly wagons Do, but awake a hope to live...?”
About This Quote
Source Poem: "The Stolen Child" (excerpt), 1919
Imagery of mythical guardians and hopeful visions suggests that even in perilous realms, imagination can inspire a yearning for life and freedom.
In simple terms: Mythic images spark hope amid danger.
Key Takeaway
Embrace imagination for resilience.
Themes
myth
hope
imagination
freedom
peril
Mood
contemplative
inspired
melancholic
Type
literary
philosophical
motivational
When to use this quote
- Creative writing workshops
- art therapy
- storytelling sessions
- educational curricula
Key Concepts
mythic guardians
hopeful visions
poetic symbolism
Questions to Reflect On
- What does the dragon‑guarded land represent?
- How can hope be cultivated in oppressive contexts?
A Different Perspective
Interpretations may vary, and literal reading can miss nuanced symbolism.
